As research often involves collaboration with partners, industry and the public, developing your professional network can enhance your research visibility, generate new opportunities (perhaps jobs or funding) and build vital connections to help your career grow. Networking encompasses a range of activities and interactions, from attending an academic conference or career event to utilising social media platforms like LinkedIn and ResearchGate to engage with peers in your field. For researchers at any career stage, networking is a key employability skill essential for your future career development.<\/p>\n
\n \u201cNetworking is an essential skill for researchers, offering pathways to collaboration, career opportunities, and professional growth. By building and maintaining connections, you can share knowledge, gain insights, and create new opportunities that benefit both your current role and your future aspirations.\u201d <\/blockquote>\n\n \n Vitae (2025) Researcher Development Framework, B3.4<\/cite><\/a> \n \n\n <\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n Networking is an important part of any research career, supporting the sharing of ideas and knowledge, facilitating collaboration and helping you to establish your reputation in your field.<\/p>\n
Typically, networking occurs in two main ways:<\/p>\n
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- Proactive networking<\/strong> \u2013 taking the initiative to contact new connections and develop links that could lead to career or research opportunities. Examples include reaching out to someone on LinkedIn or ResearchGate<\/li>\n
- Reactive networking<\/strong> \u2013 responding to situations where you can capitalise on meetings or events by asking the right questions and maintaining the connection for the future. Examples include making lasting connections at an academic conference or event run by the Doctoral Academy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n